Songplay

Joyce DiDonato, the acclaimed mezzo-soprano, presents "Songplay," a captivating album released on January 1, 2019, under Warner Classics. This operatic masterpiece spans a little over an hour and ten minutes, offering a rich tapestry of compositions from various eras and styles. DiDonato's extraordinary vocal prowess shines through in this collection, which includes both well-known arias and lesser-known gems.

The album opens with a series of arrangements by Ian Terry, showcasing DiDonato's versatility as she navigates through classical pieces like "Se tu m'ami" and "Star vicino" from Arie Antiche, Book 1, to jazz standards such as "(In My) Solitude" by Duke Ellington and "Lullaby of Birdland" by George Shearing. Her rendition of "Will He Like Me?" from "She Loves Me" and the timeless "Caro mio ben" by Giordani further highlight her ability to infuse each piece with depth and nuance.

DiDonato's interpretation of Vivaldi's arias, "Col piacer della mia fede" from "Arsilda, regina di Ponto" and "Vedrò con mio diletto" from "Giustino," demonstrates her mastery of Baroque music. The album also features contemporary compositions like "Lean Away" by Scheer and Thomas, arranged by Terry, adding a modern touch to the classical repertoire.

"Songplay" is a testament to Joyce DiDonato's artistry, offering a diverse and engaging exploration of vocal music that will delight both opera enthusiasts and those new to the genre.